Comparison of Hemp and Marijuana 

There are many different varieties of cannabis plants. Marijuana and hemp come from the same 

species of plant, Cannabis sativa, but from different varieties or cultivars. However, hemp is 

genetically different and is distinguished by its use and chemical makeup, as well as by differing 

cultivation practices in its production.2

 

Hemp, also called “industrial hemp,”3

 refers to cannabis varieties that are primarily grown as an 

agricultural crop (such as seeds and fiber, and byproducts such as oil, seed cake, hurds) and is 

characterized by plants that are low in THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, marijuana’s primary 

psychoactive chemical). THC levels for hemp are generally less than 1%. 

Comparison of Hemp and Marijuana 

There are many different varieties of cannabis plants. Marijuana and hemp come from the same 

species of plant, Cannabis sativa, but from different varieties or cultivars. However, hemp is 

genetically different and is distinguished by its use and chemical makeup, as well as by differing 

cultivation practices in its production.2

 

Hemp, also called “industrial hemp,”3

 refers to cannabis varieties that are primarily grown as an 

agricultural crop (such as seeds and fiber, and byproducts such as oil, seed cake, hurds) and is 

characterized by plants that are low in THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, marijuana’s primary 

psychoactive chemical). THC levels for hemp are generally less than 1%.